Manila, April 16 -- The Department of Health (DOH) in Ilocos Region has raised a code white alert from April 13 to 20 in all the hospitals and health facilities in the region for the observance of Holy Week. "All health facilities and all medical personnel, especially those in emergency rooms and critical care units, are ready and prepared to respond to a potential increase in patient volume due to accidents, injuries, or other health-related incidents that may arise during the Lenten season," DOH Ilocos said on Wednesday. It said the DOH will closely monitor health events and coordinate with regional and local health facilities to ensure a synchronized and efficient response to emergencies.

The alert status is part of its preparati...